Understanding Cruise Policies for Infants
Many families love to go on cruises. But, they often ask, “Do infants have to pay for a cruise?” This is an important question. Let’s find out the answer.
General Cruise Line Policies
Different cruise lines have different rules. Some cruise lines charge for infants. Others do not. You should check with your cruise line before booking.
Popular Cruise Lines
In the past, there was no cost for children between the ages of six months and 2 years when cruising with this line. Children in this age group were allowed to sail without any additional charges.
Cruise Line | Infant Policy |
---|---|
Carnival Cruise Line | Infants pay reduced fare |
Royal Caribbean | Infants pay full fare |
Disney Cruise Line | Infants pay full fare |
Norwegian Cruise Line | Infants pay reduced fare |
Infants pay reduced fare. If you have little ones under the age of 2 and are planning a family getaway on a cruise, there’s a new policy you should know about.
For parents setting sail with Norwegian Cruise Line, these younger tots will now be subject to a child’s fare. This change could potentially add several hundred dollars to your family cruise vacation budget.
For more details on this policy, visit www.ncl.com.
This update ensures you’re well-prepared for the financial aspects of your upcoming adventure, making it easier to plan ahead and enjoy smooth sailing with your family.
Yes, Norwegian Cruise Line has officially confirmed the change in their children’s fare policy. The confirmation was received through an email from the company. However, there has been no additional response or comment from them regarding this matter at the time of reporting.
A member of CruiseCritic.com stumbled upon a change in the fare policy for children on Norwegian Cruise Line during the process of booking a family cruise. Initially, while calculating costs, the member noticed that the fare for her four-year-old was $499, while her one-year-old could join the cruise for free. However, when she proceeded to finalize the booking, she discovered that fares were being applied to both children, indicating a shift in the pricing policy. This observation was then shared online, alerting others in the community to the updated fare structure.

Why Do Some Cruise Lines Charge for Infants?
Some people wonder why infants have to pay. Here are some reasons:
- Infants use resources.
- They need food and supplies.
- They need cribs and high chairs.
- They take up space.
How Much Do Infants Pay?
Cost depends on the cruise line. Some lines charge full fare. Others charge a reduced fare. It is best to ask the cruise line directly.
The newly introduced charge for children under 2 could increase the total expense of a family cruise vacation by several hundred dollars. This additional cost reflects the need for parents to budget more carefully and adjust their vacation plans accordingly. While these fees vary across cruise lines and packages, the impact on a family’s overall travel budget is significant, particularly for those planning extensive itineraries or seeking more luxurious accommodations.
Factors Affecting Costs
- Length of the cruise
- Type of cabin
- Destination
- Season
Tips for Traveling with Infants
Traveling with an infant can be fun. Here are some tips to make it easier:
- Pack enough diapers and baby food.
- Bring a stroller for easy movement.
- Book a cabin with extra space.
- Check if the cruise has a nursery.
- Keep baby’s routine as normal as possible.
Benefits of Cruising with Infants
Cruising with infants has many benefits. Here are some:
- Family bonding time
- All-inclusive amenities
- Relaxing environment
- Fun activities for all ages
- Easy to plan meals and activities

Frequently Asked Questions
Do Infants Need To Pay For Cruises?
Yes, many cruise lines charge a fare for infants.
Are There Discounts For Infants On Cruises?
Some cruise lines offer discounts for infants. Check with the specific cruise line.
Do Cruise Lines Provide Cribs For Infants?
Most cruise lines provide cribs. Request one when you book.
What Age Is Considered An Infant On A Cruise?
Typically, children under 2 years old are considered infants.
Conclusion
Do infants have to pay for a cruise? It depends on the cruise line. Some charge full fare. Others charge a reduced fare. Always check with the cruise line before booking. Traveling with an infant can be fun and easy with proper planning. Enjoy your cruise!